Letters from Our ReadersHemingway valued creative integrity, respecting the author's right to write freely without edits while acknowledging risks of friendship versus enmity.
When Robert Frost Was BadEven renowned poets like Robert Frost wrote poor poetry early in their careers.Bad poetry can persist and be significant in the literary landscape, even if initially dismissed.
8 Sonnets and Songs by William ShakespeareShakespeare's poetry, particularly his sonnets, gained prominence after he became a successful playwright, despite their initial decline in popularity.
Poem of the week: Good-bye by Walter de la MareDe la Mare's poetry explores themes of mortality and farewell, revealing deeper meanings in seemingly simple expressions of parting.
Alice Notley's Prophecies - The Paris ReviewAlice Notley's poem 'The Prophet' challenges conventional notions of prophecy and spirituality.
Where sights and sounds of modern poetry are - Harvard GazetteThe poem explores themes of time, identity, and existential indecision through vivid imagery and reflective questioning.
When Robert Frost Was BadEven renowned poets like Robert Frost wrote poor poetry early in their careers.Bad poetry can persist and be significant in the literary landscape, even if initially dismissed.
8 Sonnets and Songs by William ShakespeareShakespeare's poetry, particularly his sonnets, gained prominence after he became a successful playwright, despite their initial decline in popularity.
Poem of the week: Good-bye by Walter de la MareDe la Mare's poetry explores themes of mortality and farewell, revealing deeper meanings in seemingly simple expressions of parting.
Alice Notley's Prophecies - The Paris ReviewAlice Notley's poem 'The Prophet' challenges conventional notions of prophecy and spirituality.
Where sights and sounds of modern poetry are - Harvard GazetteThe poem explores themes of time, identity, and existential indecision through vivid imagery and reflective questioning.
An All-Female Society, Pushed to ExtremesAgustina Bazterrica's "The Unworthy" presents a complex view of women's communities, illustrating themes of hierarchies, survival, and the nuanced relationships among women.
Are Millennials Ruining Divorce, Too? | The WalrusMary Wollstonecraft's life embodies the conflict between personal choices and feminist principles, particularly illustrated by her marriage to William Godwin.
An All-Female Society, Pushed to ExtremesAgustina Bazterrica's "The Unworthy" presents a complex view of women's communities, illustrating themes of hierarchies, survival, and the nuanced relationships among women.
Are Millennials Ruining Divorce, Too? | The WalrusMary Wollstonecraft's life embodies the conflict between personal choices and feminist principles, particularly illustrated by her marriage to William Godwin.
Octavia E. Butler's 'Parable Of The Sower' Confronts What Comes After The End | DefectorParable of the Sower is a deeply unsettling yet prescient exploration of societal decline, resonating strongly with contemporary realities.
Djuna Barnes's PlaythingsDjuna Barnes's short stories offer a stark contrast to her celebrated novels, showcasing a different, more mechanical narrative style.
The Last Dream by Pedro Almodovar review fantastical fictions and candid personal curiosAlmodovar's 'The Last Dream' is a diverse collection that intertwines fictional narratives and personal essays, reflecting his unique storytelling style.
Djuna Barnes's PlaythingsDjuna Barnes's short stories offer a stark contrast to her celebrated novels, showcasing a different, more mechanical narrative style.
The Last Dream by Pedro Almodovar review fantastical fictions and candid personal curiosAlmodovar's 'The Last Dream' is a diverse collection that intertwines fictional narratives and personal essays, reflecting his unique storytelling style.
Michael Cunningham on Annie Proulx's "Brokeback Mountain"The deep emotional connection to 'Brokeback Mountain' transcends the story, evoking a desire for permanence through a tattoo.
Santa FilomenaLongfellow's poetry emphasizes sacrifice and civic values, establishing him as a pivotal figure in American literature and moral guidance.
The machine stopsThe Machine Stops serves as a cautionary tale reflecting contemporary concerns about technology's impact on human life.
The 15 Best Dr. Watsons, RankedSherlock Holmes is incomprehensible without Dr. John Watson, who enriches the narrative and emotional layers of their stories.
Caroline Blackwood's Graceful NightmaresLady Caroline Blackwood explores themes of maternal trauma and familial curses through her writing, particularly in her debut novel 'The Stepdaughter.'
What Luigi Mangione and Henry James teach us about the mystery of political violenceThe article explores the connection between political violence and literature, especially through Henry James' 'The Princess Casamassima'.
Edwin Frank Looks at What a Novel Can BeEdwin Frank's nonfiction debut explores the history and evolution of the novel, examining its influence through 33 significant works from the 20th century.
Garth Risk Hallberg's Essential Joyce Carol OatesGarth Risk Hallberg expresses admiration for Joyce Carol Oates's diverse literary contributions, revealing his profound engagement with her storytelling.
Edwin Frank Looks at What a Novel Can BeEdwin Frank's nonfiction debut explores the history and evolution of the novel, examining its influence through 33 significant works from the 20th century.
Garth Risk Hallberg's Essential Joyce Carol OatesGarth Risk Hallberg expresses admiration for Joyce Carol Oates's diverse literary contributions, revealing his profound engagement with her storytelling.
The King William's College quiz 2024 the answersKey figures and events highlighted in historical and literary contexts showcase the interplay of perseverance, political struggle, cultural complexities, and the human spirit.
A Hole Made More Obvious by What Surrounds ItLily Tuck transforms from novelist to prosecutor in her quest to resurrect Holocaust victims through fiction.
What we're reading: writers and readers on the books they enjoyed in NovemberBooks offer deep insights into personal and historical narratives, blending fact with fiction.Exploration of women's roles in history reveals significant yet overlooked contributions.
A Hole Made More Obvious by What Surrounds ItLily Tuck transforms from novelist to prosecutor in her quest to resurrect Holocaust victims through fiction.
What we're reading: writers and readers on the books they enjoyed in NovemberBooks offer deep insights into personal and historical narratives, blending fact with fiction.Exploration of women's roles in history reveals significant yet overlooked contributions.
Why Zora Neale Hurston Was Obsessed with the JewsZora Neale Hurston's unpublished novel reflects her complex view on civil rights through her admiration for Jewish resilience and contributions to liberty.
Remembering Sandra Gilbert, poet, critic, feminist, teacherSandra M. Gilbert was a pioneering feminist literary critic whose work profoundly influenced the field and inspired generations of writers and scholars.
Morning and Evening by Jon Fosse review what happens when we dieExploring death through literature reveals profound insights into the experiences of those who are dying, highlighting their emotional and existential struggles.
Remembering Sandra Gilbert, poet, critic, feminist, teacherSandra M. Gilbert was a pioneering feminist literary critic whose work profoundly influenced the field and inspired generations of writers and scholars.
Morning and Evening by Jon Fosse review what happens when we dieExploring death through literature reveals profound insights into the experiences of those who are dying, highlighting their emotional and existential struggles.
The Power Broker #12: Robert Caro - 99% InvisibleRobert Caro discusses the lasting legacy of 'The Power Broker' and its relevance to contemporary issues.
Christmas in Medieval Poetry: Subtle Allusions and Festive Celebrations - Medievalists.netMedieval poets reflected on Christmas primarily through themes of feasting and festivity, rather than religious significance.
Don't Google These Six Books Before You Read ThemReading a book without prior knowledge enhances the experience and discovery.Certain books are best experienced with no prior information about them.
A Definitive Guide to the Work of William S Burroughs' on ScreenWilliam S. Burroughs' adaptation of 'Queer' explores themes of lust and control through a psychedelic lens, grounded in his complex literary style.
Paul Valery Would Prefer Not ToModernist writing often reflects new technologies and experiences, contrasting sharply with Valéry's focus on nature and simplicity.
Charting the history of the 20th-century novel - Harvard GazetteEdwin Frank's 'Stranger Than Fiction' explores key novels of the 20th century, reflecting societal changes and innovations in narrative style.
Li Qinghzao and the Song DynastyThe lesson connects Li Qingzhao's poetry to the historical context of the Song Dynasty to enhance understanding of medieval China.
Guy Davenport-the Last High ModernistDavenport's work emphasizes the importance of cultural interactions and literary erudition in understanding historical significance.
The 7 Rules You Need to Follow to Survive a Medieval Fairy Tale - Medievalists.netMedieval romances, not just for women, feature male knights proving themselves through adventures and fantastical encounters.
Li Qinghzao and the Song DynastyThe lesson connects Li Qingzhao's poetry to the historical context of the Song Dynasty to enhance understanding of medieval China.
Guy Davenport-the Last High ModernistDavenport's work emphasizes the importance of cultural interactions and literary erudition in understanding historical significance.
The 7 Rules You Need to Follow to Survive a Medieval Fairy Tale - Medievalists.netMedieval romances, not just for women, feature male knights proving themselves through adventures and fantastical encounters.
Alice Munro's Retreat | Anne EnrightAlice Munro's legacy and fiction are reframed by the revelation of her daughter's abuse and the author's choice to protect her abuser.
No One Wrote About Sex Like Alice MunroAlice Munro's writing portrays women's perceptions as merciless and powerful in making decisions about relationships and intimacy.
Alice Munro's Retreat | Anne EnrightAlice Munro's legacy and fiction are reframed by the revelation of her daughter's abuse and the author's choice to protect her abuser.
No One Wrote About Sex Like Alice MunroAlice Munro's writing portrays women's perceptions as merciless and powerful in making decisions about relationships and intimacy.
What in Me Is Dark review the incredible afterlife of Paradise LostJohn Milton's work, particularly 'Paradise Lost', unexpectedly influences a wide range of contexts and writers, demonstrating its lasting literary significance.
What the Internet Age Is Taking Away From WritersAuthors increasingly self-market online, leaving little room for privacy or the option to remain unnoticed.
Joan Didion Remains as Elusive as Ever. These Books Want to Fix That.Joan Didion continues to fascinate readers and writers alike, inspiring multiple books and deep analysis since her passing in 2021.
What the Internet Age Is Taking Away From WritersAuthors increasingly self-market online, leaving little room for privacy or the option to remain unnoticed.
Joan Didion Remains as Elusive as Ever. These Books Want to Fix That.Joan Didion continues to fascinate readers and writers alike, inspiring multiple books and deep analysis since her passing in 2021.
SlaveroadJohn Edgar Wideman's 'Slaveroad' blends autobiography with history to explore the lasting impact of slavery on African American identity.
Haruki Murakami on Rethinking Early WorkHaruki Murakami's latest novel revisits themes and ideas from his early works, exploring the blurry lines between reality and imagination.
Shy Creatures by Clare Chambers review trauma unearthedClare Chambers's Shy Creatures showcases her storytelling prowess and deep character exploration, solidifying her status as a leading contemporary novelist.
Haruki Murakami on Rethinking Early WorkHaruki Murakami's latest novel revisits themes and ideas from his early works, exploring the blurry lines between reality and imagination.
Shy Creatures by Clare Chambers review trauma unearthedClare Chambers's Shy Creatures showcases her storytelling prowess and deep character exploration, solidifying her status as a leading contemporary novelist.
Dante's Hidden Trauma: How War Shaped The Divine Comedy - Medievalists.netDante's journey through Hell reflects trauma from his military experiences and personal losses, influencing the themes of The Divine Comedy.
Absolution by Jeff VanderMeer review a thrilling coda to an otherworldly trilogyThe Southern Reach trilogy combines science-horror with critiques of contemporary society, portraying an uncanny and transformative landscape that resonates universally.
The 4th Southern Reach book, Absolution, burst out of author Jeff VanderMeerJeff VanderMeer's 'Absolution' revisits Area X, offering deeper character exploration, new mysteries, and the same surreal allure as the original trilogy.
Absolution by Jeff VanderMeer review a thrilling coda to an otherworldly trilogyThe Southern Reach trilogy combines science-horror with critiques of contemporary society, portraying an uncanny and transformative landscape that resonates universally.
The 4th Southern Reach book, Absolution, burst out of author Jeff VanderMeerJeff VanderMeer's 'Absolution' revisits Area X, offering deeper character exploration, new mysteries, and the same surreal allure as the original trilogy.
Novelist Chuck Palahniuk would like to live in 'Tales of the City'Chuck Palahniuk and Ray Bradbury both excel in the fix-up novel format, utilizing it to create cohesive narratives from short stories.
For Fredric Jameson, Marxist Criticism Was a Labor of LoveFredric Jameson was a leading Marxist literary critic renowned for his rigorous analysis, blending traditionalism with radicalism throughout his distinguished career.
The Haunted Wood: a History of Childhood Reading by Sam Leith review young at heartChildren's literature, rich in adventure and imagination, evokes lasting joy and mental images, deeply connecting readers of all ages.
Does a Popular Children's Book Have a Secret Political Message?Children's literature can become polarized in cultural debates, as seen with 'If You Give a Mouse a Cookie' being viewed as commentary on government welfare.
The Haunted Wood: a History of Childhood Reading by Sam Leith review young at heartChildren's literature, rich in adventure and imagination, evokes lasting joy and mental images, deeply connecting readers of all ages.
Does a Popular Children's Book Have a Secret Political Message?Children's literature can become polarized in cultural debates, as seen with 'If You Give a Mouse a Cookie' being viewed as commentary on government welfare.
Gabriel's Moon by William Boyd review a spy story to rival RestlessWilliam Boyd explores the complexities of espionage through characters burdened by personal struggles, offering a fresh perspective on the spy genre.
A Light-Hearted Murder Mystery Weekend Turns Deadly in Kate Atkinson's Cozy ThrillerMystery genre brings together various communities, showcasing diverse themes through both entertainment and deep character exploration.
The Cruel Genius of Robert Plunket's Gay SatiresDramatic irony in Love Junkie signifies the looming AIDS epidemic, creating tension and highlighting the character's naiveté in the face of tragedy.
Gabriel's Moon by William Boyd review a spy story to rival RestlessWilliam Boyd explores the complexities of espionage through characters burdened by personal struggles, offering a fresh perspective on the spy genre.
A Light-Hearted Murder Mystery Weekend Turns Deadly in Kate Atkinson's Cozy ThrillerMystery genre brings together various communities, showcasing diverse themes through both entertainment and deep character exploration.
The Cruel Genius of Robert Plunket's Gay SatiresDramatic irony in Love Junkie signifies the looming AIDS epidemic, creating tension and highlighting the character's naiveté in the face of tragedy.
Each of the six Booker novels does something uniqueThe judging process of the Booker Prize highlights unique narratives and the immense challenge of selecting a winner from exceptional works.
Book Excerpt: LOST: Back to the Island: The Complete Critical Companion to The Classic TV Series by Emily St. James & Noel Murray | Features | Roger EbertBad Twin, by Gary Troup, greatly impacted the Lost fandom by exploring themes of duality relevant to the show's central conflicts.
The Best Books of 2024 So FarDeep narratives in the best books of the year explore themes of love, loss, friendship, and belonging.
My Brilliant Friend Season-Premiere Recap: SacrificesThe Neapolitan Quartet examines female friendship and identity through the lens of societal expectations and personal liberation.
The Best Books of 2024 So FarDeep narratives in the best books of the year explore themes of love, loss, friendship, and belonging.
My Brilliant Friend Season-Premiere Recap: SacrificesThe Neapolitan Quartet examines female friendship and identity through the lens of societal expectations and personal liberation.
The Midnight Library Has Sold 10 Million Copies. What Do Readers See in It?The Midnight Library uniquely blends themes of grief and hope, promoting therapeutic insights that resonate with readers facing their own challenges.
NPR Staffers Pick Their Favorite Fiction Reads of 2024Books with complex layers and emotional depth appeal to readers by blending humor with sensitive narratives.
What we're reading: writers and readers on the books they enjoyed in AugustTender Is the Flesh breaks conventions by exploring human slaughter in a dystopian narrative, revitalizing literary engagement with bold drama.
NPR Staffers Pick Their Favorite Fiction Reads of 2024Books with complex layers and emotional depth appeal to readers by blending humor with sensitive narratives.
What we're reading: writers and readers on the books they enjoyed in AugustTender Is the Flesh breaks conventions by exploring human slaughter in a dystopian narrative, revitalizing literary engagement with bold drama.
Kazuo Ishiguro Is A Repetitive Genius | DefectorIshiguro may write in similar veins but executes storytelling exceptionally well.
Smashing the girlboss myths: how women are doing ambition on their own termsWomen face internalized societal messages about ambition, experiencing conflicts and trade-offs in pursuing their goals.
Reading, Reading, Reading | Peter C. BakerIn 'The Wall,' Marlen Haushofer explores life's purpose and existence through the lens of a narrator isolated in nature, prompting reflection on the act of writing and human endeavors.
Book Club Picks for May 2024The reviewer provides detailed insights on various books, highlighting themes, genre, and author reputation.
"Forgotten" poem by C.S. Lewis published for the first timeC.S. Lewis, known for Narnia, had a diverse body of work including a newly discovered short poem published in the Journal of Inkling Studies.
Harvard's Taylor Swift Scholars Have Thoughts on Tortured Poets'Fans studying Taylor Swift's albums mirror literary analysis of poets like in Harvard's English class dedicated to Swift.
Amitava Kumar and the Novel of the Translated ManHistorical time may undervalue lives, while novelistic time delves into the depth of each individual's story.Authors like Naipaul and Kumar explore the complexities and quietness of seemingly ordinary lives in their novels.
Announcing Our Summer Issue - The Paris ReviewExploring connections in a lost manuscript prompts deep reading pleasures.
Elizabeth Horan, literary scholar: Gabriela Mistral is as important for Latin America as Bolivar, Marti, or Mariategui'Elizabeth Horan portrays Gabriela Mistral's life in her book Mistral: A Life.